If you are involved in the education sector, the ‘Shared iPad’ feature could be what you have been waiting to hear about for a long time…

Apple’s newly released iOS 9.3 software update is one of the best new advancements for the education sector as it changes the way iPads are used in the classroom.

As the name suggests, the ‘Shared iPad’ feature lets students share iPads. It is designed for schools where cost or policy concerns prevent the implementation of a one-iPad-per-student program. With the new update, students are able to login to an iPad, similar to logging onto their user account on a laptop or desktop. The result is that a student’s apps, content and progress through various tasks will be available, regardless of which iPad they actually use.

There is also a Photo ID feature that allows teachers to see which student most recently used a particular iPad, which should avoid delays related to downloading content and could help optimise on-device storage.
Students will have a four-digit login, similar to an iPhone passcode to login to their account, making it easier for younger students to remember.

As well as this, the iOS 9.3 update also features a new Classroom App that allows teachers to see what students are doing on iPads in the classroom. Teachers can also remotely launch and lock apps, and share student work on a classroom display connected to an Apple TV.

This is the first time Apple have shown an interest in allowing iOS devices to be shared and could be a big step in the right direction for them.

This new update is a breakthrough for digital learning and we look forward to putting it into practice.

If you would like to know more about this, or want to having it implemented in your classroom, please contact the eStorm office today.

What is Digital Learning

In today’s classrooms digital learning is a tool being used more and more by teachers to enhance the learning of their students. Digital Learning can be described as learning facilitated by technology that gives students some element of control over time, place, path and/or pace.

Working in the IT industry and working with educational institutions, we are seeing very positive results in schools that have implemented a digital learning strategy to their classrooms. We want to share these benefits with our readers to help you decide whether digital learning is right for your learning facility.

Time

Learning is no longer restricted to the school day or the school year. The internet and a growing number of internet access devices have given students the ability to learn anytime.

Place

Learning is no longer restricted within the walls of a classroom. The internet and technology devices have given students the ability to continue their learning anywhere; whether that be at home, with a tutor, or on a family vacation.

Path

Learning is no longer restricted to the methods used by the teacher. Interactive and adaptive software allows students to learn in their own style, making learning personal and engaging. New learning technologies provide realtime data that gives teachers the information they need to adjust instruction to meet the unique needs of each student.

Pace

Learning is no longer restricted to the pace of an entire classroom of students. Interactive and adaptive software allows students to learn at their own pace, spending more or less time on lessons or subjects to achieve the same level of learning.

We are continually seeing how digital learning is enhancing the classroom experience. Our most successful school, Redlands College, have been awarded for their commitment to enhancing their classrooms with technology devices.

For more information on how you can implement digital learning in your school, contact the eStorm office today.

The team at eStorm Australia would like to extend our congratulations to our friends at Redlands College!

We have worked with Redlands College for over 2 years, and in that time have been continuously impressed with their level of commitment to high quality, meaningful technology in the classroom. This resolute purpose has earned them Apple Distinguished School status.

In the very competitive Education Market, Redlands College is leading the way with the use of excellent technology, used practically, to ensure excellent outcomes for students. Last night’s 7 News story gave a small insight into Redlands College’s digital learning strategy, using technology for teaching and learning.

Well done to Dale, Adam and the very committed team at Redlands College!